Getting Around Borama
Borama is the largest city of Somaliland's northwestern Awdal region and serves as the commercial seat of the province, sitting near the border with Ethiopia. It is a compact, hilly city with green meadows and fields, and getting around is largely a matter of using shared vehicles, negotiating with taxi drivers, and walking the central streets. There is no rail, metro, or tram network in Borama, and no water transport, since the city is inland. The practical options are described below.
Public Transport: Dalad and Bajaj
Public transport in Borama is informal and based on shared vehicles rather than scheduled services.
- Dalad — shared cabs and minibuses that run on loose routes along the main roads, picking up and dropping off passengers at various points. They are the most common and affordable option for longer urban trips or travel to nearby towns.
- Bajaj — three-wheeled rickshaws that serve shorter distances and narrower streets, offering quicker, more direct trips for individuals or small groups.
There are no fixed route maps. Vehicles ply the main roads and drivers verbally confirm destinations, so you should ask locals to point you to the nearest dalad or bajaj stand. Main hubs cluster around market areas, taxi stands, and intersections. Minibuses stop frequently for pick-ups and drop-offs.
Fares are cash only, paid directly to the driver in Somaliland Shillings or small US dollar notes. Confirm the price before boarding. Vehicles generally operate during daylight hours, with reduced service in the evening.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Private taxis are readily identifiable and hailed by waving; drivers may slow down on seeing a prospective passenger. There is no Uber, Lyft, or other major ride-hailing app operating in Borama, so everything is arranged directly with the driver.
- Private taxis are generally considered safe, though shared taxis can be crowded.
- Fares are negotiated beforehand. Short rides cost roughly USD 3–10.
- Carry small denominations of Somaliland Shillings or USD to pay.
Walking and Cycling
Central market areas and the main thoroughfares are walkable, and self-guided walking in the city center is possible. There are no formal guided walking tours.
- There is no dedicated bicycle infrastructure, and roads are busy without designated lanes. Bicycle and motorcycle/scooter rentals are not typically available, and there are no bike-share programs.
- Avoid walking alone after dark, particularly on less-populated or unlit streets.
Driving and Car Rental
Self-drive rentals are not typically available to visitors, and self-driving is not recommended because of variable road conditions, poor signage, and security concerns. Hiring a car with a local driver is common and is usually arranged through hotels or tour operators in Hargeisa; book in advance and confirm daily rates and what is included, such as fuel and the driver's accommodation.
Roads range from paved to unpaved and dusty, driving laws are less strictly enforced than in many countries, and parking is informal and on-street. Safety concerns are greater at night.
Accessibility
Public transport generally lacks accessibility features: vehicles have steps, streets lack smooth sidewalks, and there are no ramps. Facilities for travelers with mobility challenges are very basic.
Getting There and Arriving from the Airport
Borama is served by Borama International Airport (BXX), the only airport in the Awdal region. It was named in honor of Aden Isaq Ahmed, Somalia's first Minister of Education. However, the airport is not currently in use, though there are plans to rejuvenate it. Because of this, you cannot currently fly directly into Borama and should plan your arrival through Hargeisa instead.
- From Hargeisa: Borama is reached by road from Hargeisa on an asphalted route. Travel to Borama is arranged via a lift from Hargeisa's vehicle stations, typically a shared minibus or a private car with a driver.
- From Hargeisa Airport: Taxis run from Hargeisa Airport into Hargeisa city, where you can then arrange onward transport to Borama.
- From Ethiopia: There is a border crossing at Tor-Vadzhaale (Tog-Wajaale) on the road from Hargeisa to Borama, about 40 km from Borama.
Practical Tips
- Carry small denominations of Somaliland Shillings or USD, and learn a few basic Somali phrases for directions and confirming fares.
- Visual aids such as maps or landmark photos help with communication, and locals are generally helpful.
- Travel with a reputable local guide or driver for longer distances.
- There are no tour buses in Borama or Somaliland.
- Foreign governments advise against all travel to Somaliland due to terrorism, kidnapping, and possible civil unrest. Travel permits must be obtained from the Ministry of Interior in Hargeisa, comprehensive travel coverage with evacuation coverage is advised, and you should know the emergency numbers and your embassy's location.